13 Little-Known Facts About Black Cats

Many rumors and superstitions have surrounded black cats for years. However, nearly all of them are unfounded, and black cats are no different than any other delightful housecat. We’ve got 13 lesser-known facts about black cats for you right here, so keep on reading to learn all about the majestic black beauties.

1. The bombay is the only purely black cat breed. The breed was designed to look like a little black panther back in the early 60s, and has been a popular breed ever since.

2. Black cats are half as likely to be adopted than other-colored cats. This is because people tend to find them less aesthetically pleasing and rare, which is certainly not true. Black cats are known to be extra playful and intelligent, so adopting one would be a great addition to any home!

3. In 2011, an Italian black cat named Tommaso became the richest cat in the world, inheriting over $13 million dollars from his deceased owner. Not so unlucky now, huh?

I’m lucky, I swear!

4. Some common superstitions surrounding black cats include:
– In the U.S. and North America, a black cat crossing your path means bad luck
– Conversely, in most of Asia and the U.K., black cats are a good luck sign
– In Scotland, a black cat will bring good luck to the home that they reside in
– Back in the 16th century, it was commonly believed in Italy that a black cat could tell of a person’s imminent death

5. Although the Bombay is the only strictly black cat breed, the Cat Fanciers Association accepts black as a permitted color in 22 other breeds

6. Most black cats’ color is caused by melanism, the opposite of albinism. This trait makes the cat almost completely black, and produces the black cat’s signature yellow eye color.
Black cat’s fur shows up less on clothing, making them the purr-fect fashion accessory
The prevalence of melanism may actually help strengthen the immune system of the cats, making black cats less susceptible to disease and infection

7. Many people believe that the black coat is actually an evolutionary advantage, allowing the cats to be harder to spot by prey as they lurk in the shadows. Since cats are natural predators, it would only make sense that having a dark and undetectable color would make hunting more successful.

Melanism is what causes my striking golden eyes

8. Many shelters opt out of allowing black cats to be adopted around Halloween for fear that they will be used irresponsibly. However, the ASPCA has debunked this myth. Black cats are not used for Halloween rituals, and there is no proven spike in black cat abuse around the holiday. However, it is still a good idea to keep your animals indoors on All Hallow’s Eve.

9. Black cats are associated with witches because people used to believe that witches would change themselves into black cats to prowl around at night. Many of the American superstitions surrounding black cats started around the time that witch hunts were at an all-time high, and somehow the stigma still stuck around after all these years.

10. The black color gene is a dominant trait, but in order for a cat to be totally black, both parents must carry the gene. Otherwise, the fur pattern will come out as tabby. Having an all-black cat is more rare than one would think!

11. Over time, a black cat’s fur can start to grey, just like their human counterparts. This aging will most likely show up on the cat’s muzzle and paws.

“Wait, you can see me?”

12. If a black cat spends lots of time in the sun, their melanin can be affected. This will show up as a rust colored undertone, and is a temporary trait that will go away once their melanin levels return to normal.

13. Black cats’ fur doesn’t show up as much on clothing and furniture, making them the purr-fect fashion accessory.

Adding a black cat to your home would be a great decision for anyone looking for a loving, smart, and sleek pet. Black cats are intelligent, and often love to play fetch. Don’t let these old rumors dissuade you; there are tons of black cats out there looking for a home today!